HIWA Recreation Centre Cultural Overlay

The new Hiwa Recreation Centre at the Waipapa Taumata Rau, the University of Auckland, involved a graphic overlay of Māori Mana Whenua culture. Tukutuku-like (traditional latticework) patterns were developed to bind culture to programmatic spaces. Interpretive graphics and didactics throughout the recreation centre provide information on each pattern. Broader narrative describes the theme of each program space, in a much more poetic cultural narrative. Hiwa’s identity is on display the campus and passersby, promoting cultural inclusivity and acting as a welcoming signifier.